Although it’s considered normal to have a slight overbite, if your top arch of teeth juts too far past the bottom one, it can become problematic. This type of malocclusion can have several potential causes, such as genetics, physical trauma, or indulging in too much thumb-sucking as a child.
Whatever the reason for it, if your upper teeth don’t touch the lower ones where they should, it can put your smile at risk. Your orthodontist can correct your bite with braces, but you might avoid treatment if you’re unsure it’s necessary. Continue reading to learn 3 excellent motives to correct your overbite!
Reason #1: Protect Your Enamel
If your top teeth extend too far past the bottom arch, then you might wear down your enamel excessively or prematurely, which increases the likelihood of developing decay or disease or sustaining injuries like chips, cracks, or breaks. It can also be harder to keep your teeth clean if they’re improperly positioned, leaving you more vulnerable to oral issues.
Your orthodontist can correct the position of your teeth with braces to ensure your upper and lower arches touch as they should, preventing these types of problems from occurring.
Reason #2: Prevent TMJ Disorders
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are another common concern for patients with a more pronounced overbite. Your jawbone connects to your skull via two sliding-disc joints that are located just in front of your ears on either side of your face. Under normal circumstances, they allow you to enjoy a full range of motion in your mouth.
However, a bite misalignment can force your jaw to work harder to perform basic tasks, like speaking or eating, which can leave your TMJ feeling sore or inflamed. If left untreated, this can lead to a stiff or locked jaw, as well as aches in your neck and head. Thankfully, your orthodontist can use braces to correct your malocclusion, giving your joints the reprieve they need to finally recover.
Reason #3: Boost Your Confidence
One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile, but if you’re feeling self-conscious about a severe overbite, you might avoid spending time with people. Braces can help reposition your pearly whites and correct your jaw alignment to enhance your smile’s functionality and its appearance. Once the metal brackets and wires are removed, you can look and feel like the most attractive and confident version of yourself.
If you still have pressing questions or concerns regarding your overbite, consulting your orthodontist can give you the accurate information you seek!
About the Practice
Patients at Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano benefit from award-winning providers eager to help them enhance their lives by improving their dental alignment. Dr. Jones and Dr. Amerson are highly accomplished orthodontists who collaborate to provide all the services required to help you build and maintain a beautifully straight smile, including traditional braces. They can address everything from minor concerns to more severe issues, like a pronounced overbite. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 732-1400.